PHUKET, THAILAND – A 60-year-old woman in Phuket faced criminal charges after threatening two auto finance employees with a handgun over unpaid car instalments.
Debt dispute at scenic viewpoint
The confrontation began on the afternoon of 16 December at Khao Khad Viewpoint in Wichit, where two employees of an auto finance company were searching for a Honda Jazz. According to reports, five instalments totalling 33,145 baht (about 830 euros) had not been paid. When the staff confronted the vehicle user, known as “Ms Patch”, the situation escalated after they informed her that the car would have to be returned if payment was not made.
Gun drawn during confrontation
Police said the 60-year-old became aggressive and produced an object that appeared to be a firearm, using it to threaten the two employees.
“They feared for their lives,”
said police, adding that the women immediately withdrew and later filed a complaint at Wichit Police Station. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
Voluntary surrender with registered revolver
Investigators quickly identified the suspect, contacted “Ms Patch” and asked her to surrender. She complied with the request and brought a registered .38-calibre Smith & Wesson revolver with her, for which the licence had been issued in Hat Samran district in Trang. She admitted to police that she had drawn the weapon during the dispute and had threatened the two women.
Health issues and fear of losing car
During questioning, the woman stated that she had acted under severe stress and was overwhelmed by the fear of losing her car. She also said she suffered from a lung disease and insisted that her actions had not been premeditated. Investigators indicated that these personal circumstances would be taken into account as the case proceeded.
Serious charges and possible prison term
The senior citizen was expected to stand trial on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm registered to another person. She also faced a count of threatening others with a weapon in a manner that caused fear for life and safety. Both offences were described as serious crimes carrying potential prison sentences.
Rare but troubling example of debt-related violence
Authorities noted that incidents of gun violence linked to debt collection in Thailand were rare but not unheard of, often rooted in existential financial fears. Police stated that investigations were continuing and that all legal steps would be taken. The case underscored how financial pressure combined with access to a weapon could turn an everyday dispute into a life-threatening confrontation.